Leib outlines his traits for state Senate seat

I am Howard Leib and I am asking for your vote for New York State Senate. I want you to know why I'm running and why I'm best qualified to represent your interests in Albany.

As an entertainment attorney, I have represented artists such as Whitney Houston, KISS and Judy Collins. Albany egos don't scare me. I am an educator, having taught college and graduate classes both in the classroom and online. I am a union member. I am a voting rights activist and have fought to protect the rights of all voters, regardless of party.

I am the child of teachers, the grandson of shopkeepers and the great grandson of farmers. My wife owns a small business, which creates jobs. I have been a faculty manager, responsible for hiring others. I know what it's like to struggle - I have lost a job to downsizing, and know what it means to worry about health insurance and paying bills.

I relate to the problems of real people better than my opponent, someone who has spent his entire work life in Albany as part of a dysfunctional Legislature.

I support Medicare for all and raising the minimum wage. I oppose fracking and tax cuts for the wealthy. I will create jobs by bringing new industries to New York, not bribing big businesses. I support legalizing medical marijuana and believe all New Yorkers should have high-speed Internet . You can see more of my positions at
LeibForNewYork.com.

While I am a Democrat, I do not believe that my party is always right or the other side is always wrong. My opponent votes with his party leadership more than 99.6 percent of the time. I am, and will be, an independent voice.

This is a crucial time for our state. We need leaders in the Senate, not followers, people who will bring independence, rather than vote as their party dictates. I hope you will give me the chance to represent you. This year, there is a new voice and a new choice for New York. This year, please vote for me for New York State Senate.